During natural disasters medical devices can be affected by loss of power, water surges, and other disruptions. The FDA Website offers information and related links to assist in this situation. Other links include:
The FDA also encourages consumers to plan ahead for emergency medication and medical supplies and shares the following on keeping medications safe during natural disasters:
It is critical for healthcare facilities to have a strong supply chain during and after a disaster, but that’s when it’s often the most unstable. Transportation disruption, limited fuel access, staffing shortages, and restricted access to damaged areas all cause delays in delivery of important medical supplies and medications.
Healthcare Ready, formerly Rx Response, works to strengthen and support those supply chains, bringing the public health and private sector together to focus on ways to clear a path forward through problems. It provides support through supply chain management, exercises, pandemic preparedness, and disaster access.
In addition to members-only resources, Rx Open works to help connect individuals with open pharmacies in affected disaster areas and their blog to keep interested parties up to date on capabilities and activities. Individuals can also request access to InfoCenter, their online information-sharing forum.
California Pharmacy Law provides that a pharmacist may in good faith furnish a reasonable supply of dangerous drugs/devices to patients in emergency conditions without a prescription. (California Business and Professions Code sections 4062 and 4064 and Health and Safety Code 11167)
